download All Football App

Real Madrid 'closely monitoring Liverpool forward Roberto Firmino'

  /  autty

Real Madrid are reportedly considering a move for Liverpool star Roberto Firmino at the end of the season.

The Brazilian, who has made 359 appearances for the Reds since joining in 2015, has decided not to renew his contract and leave Anfield at the end of the current season.

There is expected to be a lot of interest in the Brazilian this summer, given the extra attacking depth he could provide at some of Europe's top clubs who will be able to snap him up on a free transfer.

Spanish publication El Nacional have reported that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is aware of Firmino's situation and could look to convince the Brazilian to make the move to the Santiago Bernabeu this summer.

It comes at a time when Karim Benzema's future is yet to be officially confirmed, with his contract also up at the end of the season.

Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti though said he expected Benzema to sign a new contract at the Santiago Bernabeu, meaning Firmino could be used as a back-up to the Frenchman.

El Nacional report that there are not many strikers that Real Madrid can hire, as they are too expensive or not trusted by the club.

It's said Perez has 'learned a lesson' after they spent £52m on Luka Jovic, who struggled at Los Blancos before he joined Fiorentina last year.

Madrid are also planning to spend big money on Borussia Dortmund star Jude Bellingham, with the Bundesliga side expected to demand over £100m for the England international.

Since joining Liverpool for £29m from Hoffenheim, Firmino has scored 109 goals for the club, winning all there is to win under Jurgen Klopp.

He formed a prolific front three with Mohamed Salah and current Bayern Munich star Sadio Mane, but the additions of Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo have limited his opportunities.

Despite this, he is their second highest scorer in the Premier League this season with nine goals - most recently netting the important late equaliser in their thrilling 2-2 draw with Arsenal.